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Racehorse Health: A Guide for Owners and Trainers

Your Equine Veterinarian:  The Important Role of the Racetrack Practitioner

 

Racetrack practitioners arrive at the racetrack by 5 a.m. and begin a workday that, on average, spans twelve to fourteen hours. Most racetrack training facilities operate from 6 to 10 a.m. The first four hours of the morning are extraordinarily hectic-especially because most practitionerssee 50 or more horses a day. In the first two hours, they have typically met all on-site trainers, prioritizing examinations based on what emergencies have arisen. By 7 a.m., the practitioner has addressed emergencies and begins physical examinations. If there are no emergencies, then theveterinarian begins routine check-ups.

 

Veterinarians work closely with the trainer, who, as an agent for the owner, decides much of what will affect their horses. The trainer keeps the practitioner abreast of where their horse will be racing next, so that both the trainer and practitioner are in full compliance with state racing rules. The veterinarian makes medical recommendations to the trainer, who authorizes veterinary exams, medications, and routine check-ups. In the event of a serious illness or injury, most practitioners prefer to speak with both the trainer and owner, especially if it involves extensive medical care.

 

Between 7 and 11 a.m., the practitioner has completed the morning rounds. The practitioner will then conduct additional examinations, such as those for insurance coverage or pre-purchase exams, until the races begin.

 

Depending on the track, races begin between 1 and 3 p.m., and last for five hours. Typically, the practitioner remains at the track to observe the horses as they run, which will assist with diagnosing the horse’s health. If there is an injury, the veterinarian also is available to attend to the horse. After each race, many of the trainers request an additional examination, particularly if the horse has a cut, laceration or injury. Often, the veterinarian remains at the track up to an hour after the last race.

 

Between 7 and 9 p.m., the practitioner is able to return to the office to evaluate x-rays and write

examination reports for the horses seen that day. Racing commissions in every state require

practitioners to keep a record of each medication administered, and practitioners complete

medication reports to submit to the racing commission.

 

 

 

 

 

Copyright © 1996-2009 American Association of Equine Practitioners.
All rights reserved.
American Association of Equine Practitioners
4075 Iron Works Parkway • Lexington, KY 40511
Phone: 859-233-0147 • Fax: 859-233-1968
e-mail: aaepoffice@aaep.org